Riaz ul Jannah, also known as the ” Garden of Paradise,” is a highly respectable area within Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places on earth for us as Muslims. This small but significant area is located between the pulpit (minbar) and the grave of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Narrated by Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA):

The Prophet (SAW) said, “Between my house and my pulpit, there is a garden of the gardens of Paradise, and my pulpit is on my fountain tank (i.e. Al-Kauthar).”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 1196]

Visiting Masjid-e-Nabawi is a profound experience, especially during Hajj or Umrah. The area holds deep significance as it is discreetly linked with the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The opportunity to pray in this holy place is a special moment that nurtures a strong spiritual connection.

History of Riaz ul Jannah

The history of Riaz ul Jannah dates back to the early days of Islam when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) arrived in Medina after migrating from Makkah. Initially, He (SAW) used to pray outside under a tree. Later, He (SAW) constructed a simple structure made from palm leaves where He (SAW) preached Islam after completing his prayers.

The Hijrah to Medina was a migration from Makkah to Medina led by Hazrat Muhammad (SAW), and it marked the birth of the first Islamic state. To learn more about the Hijrah, read our blog post: Hijrah Madina—What is Hijra in Islam?

Afterward, this specific area became popularly known among residents as “Rawdhatun-Nabi.” Over time, the mosque underwent several expansions and renovations, while various rulers and caliphs contributed to its development.

The Significance of Riaz ul Jannah

Millions of Muslims visit this holy site yearly to offer prayers, recite the Quran, and seek blessings from Allah Almighty. Riaz ul Jannah’s significance lies in its ability to connect us with our faith and provide us with a sense of peace and solace.

It is believed that prayers in Riaz ul Jannah bring a special closeness to Allah (SWT) due to Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) blessings.
Visiting and praying in this area is sought for spiritual purification and seeking forgiveness for sins.
Praying at Riaz ul, Jannah is thought to purify the soul.
This site is known for its tranquility and as a source of comfort and spiritual nourishment for believers.

How to Enter Riaz ul Jannah

Here’s a guide on the practical steps to enter this sacred area:

Choosing the Best Times to Visit: The best times to visit are generally during off-peak hours when the mosque is less crowded.

Weekdays: The mosque will generally be less crowded on weekdays than on weekends.

Prayer Times: The mosque will be most crowded during prayer times.

Early mornings after Fajr prayer
Late nights after Isha’s prayer
During weekdays, particularly outside the Friday Congregational Prayer (Jumu’ah).

Identifying Specific Entry Points

Riaz ul Jannah can be accessed through multiple entry points within the Prophet’s Mosque. The most common entry points include:

Bab as-Salam (Gate of Peace): This gate is located on the northern side of the mosque and provides direct access to Riaz ul Jannah.
Bab al-Baqi (Gate of Baqi): This gate is located on the western side and leads to Riaz ul Jannah.
Bab Jibril (Gate of Jibril): Located on the eastern side, this gate provides access to the area near Riaz ul Jannah.

These gates may have separate entrances designated for individuals. It’s important to follow the appropriate entrance based on gender.

Observing Mosque Etiquette

Upon entering the mosque through designated gates, follow signs or ask staff for directions to Riaz ul Jannah.

Before entering, perform ablution to ensure Wadu (Ritual Purity).
Remove your shoes before stepping onto the carpeted area of Riaz ul Jannah, as is customary in mosques.
Once inside, offer prayers or Recite the Quran, engage in supplications, or perform other acts of worship while being mindful of others around you.
Avoid engaging in loud conversations or disruptive behavior that may disturb other worshippers or detract from the Holiness of this Place.

Following these practical steps and observing proper etiquette, you can enter with respect, seeking this holy area’s spiritual blessings and peace within the Prophet’s Mosque.

Prayers and Supplications in Riaz ul Jannah

It’s a blessed time to engage in various acts of worship, including prayers and supplications.

Voluntary Prayers (Nafl Salah)

One of the most common practices in Riaz ul Jannah is to offer voluntary prayers. These prayers are not obligatory but are highly recommended to draw closer to Allah (SWT) and seek His (SWT) pleasure. Some of the recommended Nafl prayers that can be performed. The Sunnah prayers associated with the Five Daily Prayers (Duha, Ishraq, and Awwabin), as well as additional Rak’ahs of Tahajjud prayer, especially during the night.

Tahajjud prayer is a highly recommended voluntary act in Islam. It strengthens mental peace, seeks forgiveness and blessings, and fosters a personal connection with Allah. For more information, visit this blog: How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer.

Supplications

When visiting Riaz ul Jannah, we should engage in supplications as described in the Hadith, offering much dua and seeking forgiveness near the Pillar of Repentance. Sending blessings to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) also improves our spiritual experience.

Read more about the Importance of Dua in Islam

Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said:

“When you pass by the gardens of Paradise, they feast.” They said, “And what are the gardens of Paradise?” He said, “The circle of remembrance.”
[Jami at-Tirmidhi 3510]

When having a feast, say the following phrases: “Subḥan Allah,” “Al-Ḥamdulillah,” “La Ilaha Illallah,” and “Allahu Akbar.”

Opening Timings for Riaz ul Jannah

It doesn’t have specific opening and closing times. The permit system applies to everyone regardless of gender. This is because it’s a designated praying area within the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Medina, which is generally open 24/7 for prayer.

There aren’t specific times for women to enter. However, there is separation within the Riaz ul Jannah. Here’s what to keep in mind:

During prayer times, separate areas are designated for individuals throughout the mosque.
Outside of prayer times, individuals can be in the mosque together, but there are often red lines on the floor indicating gender-specific areas for prayer and contemplation.

Booking and Appointment Details for Riaz ul Jannah

Appointments are currently required to visit Riaz ul Jannah. You can book your visit through the Nusuk app. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the app to book an appointment:

Download the Nusuk app on your smartphone.
Launch the app and choose your preferred language.
Grant the app location access when prompted.
Register for an account on the app. Enter all the required information correctly to avoid any issues with your booking.
Once registered, log in to your account.
Look for the option to reserve a Salah slot (prayer time).
Choose the date and time for your visit that best suits your prayer plan. Keep in mind that you cannot select multiple slots at once. Visits are allowed at designated prayer times.
Once you’ve selected your preferred slot, confirm your booking.
You will receive an e-permit and a confirmation message showing your appointment details. Make sure to save the e-permit on your phone for easy access.

Important Reminders

You cannot choose the specific area where you will pray.
Upon arrival at the Prophet’s Mosque, show your e-permit to the designated authorities for verification. They may also ask for your ID.
Be sure to dress modestly as per Islamic guidelines when visiting the mosque.

Conclusion

Riaz ul Jannah is essential for Muslims worldwide. It’s a place where we can feel the blessings and closeness of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW). When we go there, we can feel spiritually forgiven and calm.

When you experience Riaz ul Jannah, let it inspire you to bring that peace and calmness into your everyday life. Think about how being there makes you feel spiritually lifted. Try to be like that in your thoughts, actions, and how you treat others. This will strengthen our faith and devotion to Allah (SWT).